Forage
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Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 22, 2021
It was another cool week without a lot of degree day accumulations. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 15, 2021
Due to the cooler temperatures, we didn’t accumulate a lot of degree days for alfalfa weevils during the last week. However, there are some areas in South Dakota where alfalfa weevils may be active.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: April 8, 2021
As the temperatures begin to warm up around South Dakota, it is important to remember that some insect pests are accumulating degree days. One of the insect pests that we use degree day models to monitor is the alfalfa weevil.
Don’t Let Dry Conditions Take a Toll on Breeding Success
If you feel pastures are not going to provide adequate nutrients to prepare cows for breeding, here are some management strategies that can be done to potentially stimulate estrus, maintain good pregnancy rates, and save some feed resources too.
Economic Considerations for Early Weaning
There is an excellent reason why ranchers use early weaning as a drought management tool: Weaning calves early reduces the amount of feed required to maintain the cow.
Feeding at the Right Price
Managing feedstuffs efficiently becomes more important during drought conditions or low revenue years.
Using Drought-Stressed Corn as Forage
When drought has compromised tonnage of corn grain, silage producers may still retain part of its feeding value.
Making Use of “Ugly” Feeds
Feed does not have to be perfect to be useful. The key to making smart feeding decisions is knowing what the imperfections are and adjusting accordingly.
Soybeans & Sunflowers: Alternative Cattle Forages
Alternative forages like soybean silage or hay, and sunflower silage, can help stretch conventional forage supplies and help avoid overgrazing pasture.
Feeding Drought-Stressed Crops to Cattle
Can drought-stressed crops be be utilized as feed? The answer is yes, if we know what the levels of nitrates are in the feedstuffs in question.